We’re a full-service veterinary hospital.
Deborah Capper, DVM
Our principal doctor, Dr. Capper is a 2005 graduate of Oregon State University. Married with a grown daughter she loves spending time with her three grandchildrens. Puppy kisses make her day! Dogs Sampson and Flynn, horse and pony Katy and Biscuit, and a flock of chickens and geese keep her hopping.
Julie, Licensed Technician
Our practice manager Julie is a 1979 graduate of Portland Community College’s veterinary technician program and has been a licensed technician ever since. Decades in general and emergency medicine have given her quite the toolbox of skills. Julie and Dr. Capper worked together for 8 years before teaming up again to start Wellhaven Hazel Dell in 2018. Geriatrics, hospice and weight management are her areas of interest. She has shown and bred standard longhaired dachshunds for many years. Outside of work she enjoys gardening, do it yourself home projects and spending time with her two daughters and granddaughter. Dogs Milo & Poppy and cats George, Jinx and Handsome Pants share her home.
Terri, Veterinary Assistant
Terri has been working in veterinary medicine since 2002, and Wellhaven Hazel Dell from its beginning in 2018. She has transitioned from customer service to becoming one of our highly appreciated veterinary assistants. She is very passionate about the Fear Free revolution in veterinary care and enjoys working with fearful patients to help build their trust and ease their fear and stress. When she’s not working, Terri enjoys spending time with her two adult twin daughters and her granddaughter. You can also find her reading, spending time on yard work, and racing on the Fear Not Sprint Boat Team as the navigator!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Pet Preventive Care
Vancouver’s climate and access to outdoor spaces create several preventive considerations for local pet owners. These answers address some of the questions we commonly associate with long-term protection.
How do pet wellness exams fit into preventive care?
Wellness exams are part of preventive veterinary care. They allow your veterinarian to assess current health, track changes, and use those findings when considering vaccinations, parasite prevention, screenings, and other proactive recommendations.
Does Vancouver’s mild, rainy climate affect parasite risk?
It can. Moisture, vegetation, and moderate temperatures may allow certain parasites to remain relevant for longer periods. Protection should be based on your pet’s individual exposure.
Should I mention hiking or wooded-area activity to my veterinarian?
Yes. Time in brush, tall grass, wooded areas, or wildlife-heavy environments can affect parasite exposure and is useful information when discussing prevention.
Should preventive care be reviewed before boarding?
Yes. Boarding can increase contact with unfamiliar animals and shared environments. Reviewing vaccination and parasite protection before an upcoming stay can help ensure current recommendations still fit.
Can travel outside Vancouver change preventive recommendations?
Yes. Different regions can have different infectious disease and parasite risks. Share frequent or upcoming destinations with your veterinarian when reviewing your pet’s preventive plan.
